Pope Leo XIV Calls for Dialogue and a "Culture of Peace" Amidst International Tensions

Pope Leo XIV insisted on his anti-war message this Thursday while embarking on his return journey to the Vatican after concluding his tour of Africa. On board the aircraft, he was asked for a message directed at the U.S., Iran, and Israel to "stop the escalation."

"I would like to encourage the continuation of dialogue for peace, that the parties attempt to make every effort to promote peace, move away from the threat of war, and that international law be respected," he stated.

Leo XIV emphasized the necessity to "promote a new attitude and a culture of peace" in general. "As the Church, I repeat, and as a pastor, I cannot be in favor of war," he reiterated.

Relations between Washington and the Vatican have recently undergone one of their most difficult periods, amidst direct attacks from U.S. President Donald Trump against the Pontiff, who is originally from the United States. These tensions followed the Holy Father's expressions of concern regarding international conflicts and migration policies, expressed in a tone that the Republican administration has interpreted as critical.